Ensuring the well-being of your Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW) is not only a legal obligation but also fosters a harmonious household. As a trusted maid agency in Singapore, we provide employers with the necessary guidance to care for their helpers, ensuring they are treated fairly while complying with MOM regulations.
This guide covers essential aspects like rest days, accommodation, meals, medical care, and cultural sensitivity—all crucial factors in maintaining a positive employer-maid relationship.
Rest Days
As of 1 January 2023, employers are required to provide their MDWs with at least one rest day per week, with a minimum of one rest day per month that cannot be compensated away. This rest day allows MDWs to rejuvenate and maintain their mental and physical health. Employers and MDWs should mutually agree on which day of the week the rest day will be taken. If an MDW consents to work on her rest day, she must be compensated with at least one day’s salary, which is additional and not included in her basic salary. Flexibility in rest day arrangements is encouraged to suit both parties’ needs:
- Splitting Rest Days: The rest day can be taken as one full day or divided into two half-days.
- Deferring Rest Days: With mutual agreement, a rest day can be deferred by up to one month, ensuring it is taken by the end of the subsequent month.
- At-Home Rest: MDWs may choose to spend their rest day at home. Employers should respect this choice and refrain from assigning work during this period.
Employers must update the rest day arrangements through the FDW eService after discussions with their MDW.
Accommodation
Providing suitable accommodation is crucial for your MDW’s comfort and dignity. The accommodation should meet the following standards:
- Adequate Shelter: Protection from environmental elements such as sun, rain, and strong winds.
- Basic Amenities: Provision of a mattress, pillow, blanket, and bathroom necessities like soap, shampoo, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
- Sufficient Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow; if natural ventilation is inadequate, mechanical ventilation like fans should be provided.
- Safety: The sleeping area should be free from dangerous equipment or structures that could cause harm.
- Privacy and Modesty: MDWs should not share a room with a male adult or teenager. If surveillance devices are installed, MDWs must be informed, and such devices should not be placed in private areas like bedrooms or bathrooms.
- Space and Privacy: Ideally, a separate room should be provided. If not feasible, ensure the shared space offers adequate privacy.
Adequate Food
Employers are responsible for providing their MDWs with three nutritious meals daily. A balanced diet might include:
- Breakfast: Four slices of bread with spread.
- Lunch: One bowl of rice, three-quarters cup of cooked vegetables, a palm-sized portion of meat (fish, poultry, beef, or lamb), and a piece of fruit.
- Dinner: Similar to lunch, ensuring a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and vegetables.
Medical Care
Employers must bear the full cost of medical care for their MDWs, including:
- Medical and Personal Accident Insurance: Ensuring coverage for potential health issues or accidents.
- Timely Medical Attention: Providing prompt medical treatment when needed.
Cultural Sensitivity and Communication
Many MDWs come from diverse backgrounds and may face challenges such as language barriers, unfamiliarity with household appliances, and adjusting to urban living. Employers can support their MDWs by:
- Orientation and Training: Offering guidance on household routines and appliance usage.
- Patience and Understanding: Allowing time for MDWs to adapt to new environments and practices.
- Open Communication: Encouraging discussions to address concerns and build trust.
By adhering to these guidelines, employers can create a supportive atmosphere that promotes the well-being of their MDWs, leading to a positive and productive working relationship.
Source: Ministry of Manpower – Rest days, health and well-being for migrant domestic workers
